WISH JUMPERS
In recognition of Make-A-Wish® Northeast New York’s 25 Anniversary this year, we have 25 skydivers! We have a collective goal of raising $25,000 for Make-A-Wish NENY. That’s a lot of hope, strength, and joy for our wish kids! To make a donation on behalf of one of the Wish Jumpers, simply click on their NAME to be taken directly to their personal fundraising page. You can also click on the blue DONATE button shown on this page.
Meet the team…
WILLIAM C. TRIGG, III, Ph.D., CEO Make-A-Wish Northeast New York
I had the thrill of a lifetime last year jumping out of a perfectly good Cessna airplane to raise money for the benefit of our Wish Kids. As we celebrate the Northeast New York Chapter’s 25th anniversary this year, I now have the privilege of doing it again! But this time with 24 other crazy (I mean, brave) souls as we seek to raise more than $25,000 to grant more wishes in the fall, including my Wish Kid Andrew’s wish to meet the New England Patriots in October! So for Andrew and the dozens of other really wonderful kids whose wishes we NEED to make happen, help me give them the gift of a wish come true by sponsoring me for Wish Jump 2012! My staff is looking forward to seeing me hurtle through the sky like a lunatic again this year . . . and skid 100 feet or more across a grassy plain on my ass. All for the greater glory and honor of Make-A-Wish!!
HEIDI EUSTIS, Make-A-Wish Volunteer
My first jump for Make-A-Wish NENY, in 2011, was as thrilling as it was satisfying. The privilege and joy of such an empowering experience is something that every child with a life-threatening illness should receive! I can’t wait to have my own experience again – and, through that, to help provide a deserving child with their own empowering and thrilling experience. This year, I jump in honor of a Wish Child, Peyton, who is a family member battling leukemia. My fundraising goal this year is $2,000!
JAY HAAS, Wish Coordinator, Make-A-Wish Northeast New York, Wish Granter
My wife and I have been volunteering for Make-A-Wish Northeast New York since 2006. I’ve been working here in the office since 2008, and my primary responsibility is booking all of the Disney Wishes. I think everyone should go to Disney at least once in their life! My goal is to raise $1,000. Since this is our 25th anniversary here at Make-A-Wish Northeast New York, we have 25 jumpers this year. I figured hey, if we all raise $1,000 that will be $25,000 for the kids!
MARY KENNEY, Lemery Greisler LLC, Volunteer Wish Granter
It is a true privilege to be a volunteer Wish Granter for Make-A-Wish Northeast New York. I have witnessed the power of a wish first-hand. This is an organization that gives children with life-threatening medical conditions something fun to look forward to. It puts the focus on the child and their dreams, and offers the child and their family an escape from scary things like hospitals, doctors, medicines, and uncertainty. Parents and doctors alike have referred to the wishes as medicine for the soul. It has given me a perspective on life like few other experiences. Please help me help Make-A-Wish continue its mission by donating on my behalf! Fundraising goal: $1,500.00
DENA HABERLAND, Picotte Companies, Volunteer Wish Granter
You think jumping out of an airplane at 9,000 feet is scary? It’s nothing compared to the reality that many of these wish kids face each day! I have been a Wish Granter for 8 years, and I know the power of a wish. Granting the heartfelt wish of a child so they can have their dream and just be a kid again, is powerful! It truly brings them hope, strength, and joy. Please support this amazing organization so we can continue our mission!
HEATHER KRUG, Parsons Child and Family Center
“So”, you ask, “why do you want to jump out of a plane?!” Well, my initial interest was driven by a personal ambition of my own. I’ve had a trying couple of years in my own life, and was feeling weak and powerless over my circumstances. Doing something as crazy and impractical as jumping from a plane seemed like just the way to regain my self-confidence, discover greater depths of my strength and courage, and celebrate plunging into my new life. When Mary told me she was coordinating a second Wish Jump, I just couldn’t resist. What better way could there be to fulfill one’s own wish than to help fulfill the wish of a child? As I thought about the children served by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, I was reminded of the many things I have to be thankful for. These children and their families are confronted with frightening medical procedures and disheartening prognoses; yet they do endure, with grace and courage and play. I also came to realize that maybe I had something in common with these little boys and girls — We each want to feel strong, joyful and healed. I think that, just maybe, this opportunity can help us all feel one step – or leap! – closer to being whole, happy and hopeful.
ERIC STEWART, Taylor Freezer of Albany, Inc.
“
When first asked to participate in the Make-A-Wish Northeast – “Wish Jump 2012”, I couldn’t help but to “jump” all over it! Given the opportunity to raise money for children with life threatening illnesses and being able to give them a little bit of fun that some of us may take for granted sometimes, is something I couldn’t pass up. Putting a smile on a child’s face is one of life’s treasures that every adult cherishes. Please help me allow some of these children to smile and enjoy life to their fullest!” Fundraising goal: $1,500.00
DANIELLE SANZONE, The Troy Record
I’ve been volunteering with Make a Wish since college and it has become a cause that is very important to me. This year also happens to mark a decade since I went skydiving for the first time, and a decade since I had to use crutches for the first time due to a bumpy landing. Since my first jump didn’t go quite as well as I’d hoped, I had planned to try to go again this year anyway so the timing for this fundraiser was perfect. I’m looking forward to facing my fears again in a perfectly good airplane while raising as much money as possible for Make-A-Wish.
ALLESSANDRA SKINNER, CDPHP
When I heard about the “Leap for Wishes” fundraiser through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, I “jumped” at the opportunity to get involved! As a reporter, I covered the story of a Rotterdam boy who was granted a wish of becoming a pilot. It touched my heart. I’m now a public relations manager for CDPHP, and while I’m not sure this is considered a “healthy activity,” I know my community-based employer would support the cause. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope you’ll consider making a donation!
DAVID DONALDSON, Stantec Albany
I’m participating in the Wish Jump 2012 fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Northeast New York because I want to increase awareness for this foundation as I think it is a good cause. Heights make me nervous, so this will either be very enjoyable or nerve-racking, maybe a little bit of both in the beginning, but I am looking forward to it!
CHARLY TERRY, Wilson Elser, Albany
I’m super excited for the opportunity to be a part of Wish Jump 2012! I live and work in the Capital District and I’m always looking for creative ways to become involved in local organizations that support and encourage individuals of a variety of abilities within our very own community. Last summer, my sister and I raised over $4,000.00 for the Special Olympics NY for a chance to rappel 18 stories from the Crown Plaza in Albany. The entire process was rewarding from start to finish. Events like Wish Jump 2012 are awesome opportunities to raise money for great causes and also provide a small opportunity for me to honor the many children who continue along their graceful journey of overcoming the challenges they are presented with on a daily basis. Like my precious nephew Nathan, who amazes and inspires us all.
KANDI TERRY, Volunteer Wish Granter
A Wish gives a child facing a life-threatening illness something to look forward to ~ something BIG! Something beyond their wildest dreams ~ something beyond their illness. I am proud to be a part of this team and hope you’ll join me in raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast New York! On a personal note, this jump will enable me to check skydiving off my bucket list!!! My sister Charly and I will be taking this leap together; while our families watch nervously from the ground. But it’s not the first time they’ve watched anxiously as we participate in something adventurous together for an amazing cause! Last year, we scaled the Crown Plaza. Please support our efforts and come watch us take the WishJump2012 on August 25th. God bless…
STEPHANIE KELLY, Volunteer Wish Granter
Skydiving is something I’ve always wanted to do but never really had the courage or opportunity before. I’ve known about Make-A-Wish since I was a kid, and I have been a volunteer Wish Granter for 8 years. Each wish is a reminder to me of how blessed I am. I know my donation and support of this organization will make it possible to keep granting wishes. I’ve shared some of the wish stories with my kids (especially my daughter), and I hope they will see this jump as my way to take a somewhat-safe risk and step out of my comfort zone. I hope this action will inspire them to be brave and try new things more than encouraging words ever could.
MIKE FRASER, City of Troy
I’m a lifelong resident of the Capital District (Troy), and I work for the City of Troy as the Director of Public Information in the Mayor’s Office. In that capacity, I’ve gained an appreciation for the importance of giving back to the community and doing little things that can help others in need. I chose to participate in Wish Jump 2012 because in doing so, I’m able to participate in a thrilling, first-time experience while at the same time help advance the mission of one of the country’s most laudable and distinguished charities. The Make-A-Wish Foundation LITERALLY makes dreams come true for the people in our society who need and deserve it most – children facing serious medical challenges. I’ve never sky-dived before, and I’m admittedly a little nervous about it. But if I can muster even a shred of the courage the Make-A-Wish kids display each day, jumping out of an airplane will seem relatively easy. My fundraising goal is $700. Hoping I can get there!
DIANNE BOHANSKE-RAVELLA, Administrative Assistant, Make-A-Wish Northeast New York, Wish Granter
After hearing all about last year’s jump first hand from Bill Trigg, our CEO here at Make-A-Wish, I couldn’t let him have all the fun alone… so I couldn’t wait to be involved in this year’s jump! A big part of my job each and every day here is to process the donations that come in from all different sources. Another great part of my job is being a volunteer wish granter and knowing, first hand, just how much each and every donation means – no matter what the size. As a mother and grandmother, I believe in and appreciate the difference this organization makes in the lives of our wish kids and families. So please help me raise lots of money for wishes!!!! Fundraising goal: $1,000
MIKE ADAMS, 105.7 CRUSH FM
So, I came into work not too long ago and was asked “Hey Mike, wanna raise funds for the Make-A-Wish foundation?” I smiled from ear to ear and nodded in approval. Of course that question was followed with, “You’re also going to jump out of an airplane!” (For the record- Heights and I do not get along.) As I thought about my fear, I also started to think about my son, Noah. What if Noah were sick? What if Noah wanted to see Disney World again? What If someone able to communicate to thousands of people daily said, NO? I’m in and using every ounce of energy to raise funds for kids who, like Noah, just want to feel like kids. If I have to jump out of an airplane to do it- Count me in!
TANCH, HOT 99.1 FM
Being in radio, I’ve had first hand experience seeing a child’s reaction to meeting some of their idols and favorite celebrities. I’m participating in the wish jump to help Make-A-Wish continue their tireless efforts to bring joy to children’s lives. Fundraising Goal: $1,000
BRIAN NOE, “THE NOE SHOW”, 104.5 THE TEAM ESPN RADIO
I’ve always wanted to skydive. Jumping out of a plane for a great cause like Make-A-Wish Northeast N
ew York is even better!
SCOTT BLAINE, 107.7 WGNA
Ever since I was a little kid, it has always given me a warm feeling to be able tp help others less fortunate. I’ve watched celebrities on TV make wishes come true for kids coping with serious illness and it always puts a huge smile on my face. I’m participating in Wish Jump 2012 to help raise money for Make-A-Wish so they can continue their work in making a child’s life better by granting their heartfelt wishes!
JEN BEAUDOIN, Q103 Albany, Q-Tease
When I first applied to work at Q103, I had to fill out a questionnaire. One of the questions asked if I had only 24 hours to live, what would I do? I replied with “Skydive.” Never did I think that nearly two years later I would get such an opportunity, and for such a good cause nonetheless! Throughout my 24 years of life I have been blessed with amazing people, experiences, and support. I have lost a few friends to life-threatening diseases and if it wasn’t for Make-A-Wish they would never have even had a chance, and I am so thankful that I get to take part in this. My mind says I’m crazy for doing this, but my heart says otherwise. I hope to raise a good amount of money for this wonderful cause so that kids in the future can have thei
r dreams come true just as my crazy dream of jumping out of a plane came true!
GREG AIDALA, Radial Gage Entertainment
Why jump out of a perfectly good airplane? I can’t answer that with a logical response. Wait, yes I can – for the children who benefit greatly from an opportunity to forget about their illness for a while, dream big, and experience an unforgettable wish. When I participated in last year’s skydiving event, I met many of the Make-A-Wish Northeast New York staff and volunteers. I was immediately hooked about the impact Make-A-Wish has on families all around the 518 area code. It is my hope that this landmark event raises more awareness about the importance of Make-A-Wish and their mission. I also “wish” my landing goes smoothly again this year!
DAVID FILKINS, Ed Lewi Associates
For years, I admired the Make-A-Wish Foundation from afar for its ability to assist wish kids in such a personal and special way. My admiration grew when I became a public relations specialist at Ed Lewi Associates and began working with Make-A-Wish on charitable campaigns through one of our clients. Then, earlier this year, a beautiful child from my community became a wish kid. Through her and her family I came to truly understand the magnitude of what wish kids face on a day-to-day basis. Jumping out of an airplane is the least I could do to bring attention to the organization.
LEO DEAN, Norvest Financial Services Inc., U.S. Army 517th Parachute Regimental Combat Team Veteran
Leo Dean is a Capital Region native, a respected businessman, an honored World War II Veteran Paratrooper, and peach pie baker and connoisseur. He continues to skydive on a regular basis around the United States and in Europe, often with his fellow veterans of the 517th Parachute Regimental Combat Team.
When approached on an Albany sidewalk by a total stranger and propositioned to skydive for Make-A-Wish Northeast New York, Leo hesitated for all of five seconds before saying yes. It is a privilege to have him on our Wish Jump 2012 team, and we thank him for joining us.
JANE LANG, Make-A-Wish Northeast New York Volunteer
I have been volunteering with Make-A-Wish for almost 15 years and have wanted to skydive since I was a teenager. So, when this opportunity came along to jump and benefit my favorite organization, I had to do it. Make-A-Wish does such a fabulous job helping kids and families through difficult times, I feel honored to be able to help grant wishes and check off one of my bucket list items all-in-one! Woo-hooo!
JERRY KEENAN, Law Office of John T. Keenan, III, Volunteer Wish Granter
I am a brand new wish granter for Make-A-Wish NENY. I recently relocated back home to the Capital District and thought this is the perfect time for me to begin volunteering my time to an organization that helps others. Make-A-Wish was the first organization that came to mind as I have heard many positive stories of how the power of a wish made a difference in a child’s life. I thought to myself, “I want to be part of the team of individuals that can bring hope and joy back into a child’s life”. When I heard about the Wish Jump 2012 fundraising event, I quickly signed up. I have wanted to skydive for many years but kept putting it off. So this is a great opportunity to help raise money for MAW and also fulfill a “to-do” on my personal wish list. I hope all of you that read this will help contribute to my fundraising goal of $1000.00.
QUESTIONS? WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE A CORPORATE SPONSOR? CONTACT MARY KENNEY AT wishjump2012@gmail.com
